The New Zealand Schools and New Zealand Schools Barbarians teams have been selected for their upcoming campaigns.
Players spent three days in a development camp at Massey University’s Sport & Rugby Institute in Palmerston North.
Auckland players who have been selected for the New Zealand Schools team are: Taufa Funaki (Sacred Heart College), Etene Nanai (Saint Kentigern College), Fatongia Paea (Sacred Heart College), Rivez Reihana (Saint Kentigern College), Tupou Vaa’i (Wesley College), Tamaiti Williams (Saint Kentigern College).
Coach Jason Holland said there were tough decisions to make in selecting the Schools team.
“The camp has been very high quality and the players have really applied themselves over the past few days,” said Holland.
“The guys have come to us in good nick and we’ve got a squad with strength and depth across all positions.
The team will remain in Palmerston North before departing for Australia on Tuesday, 26 September.
President of the New Zealand Barbarians Club, Ron Williams, announced the New Zealand Schools Barbarians’ team.
Auckland players who have been selected for the New Zealand Schools Barbarians team are: Lesinali Tovo Faleafa (Auckland Grammar School), Saula Mau (Auckland Grammar School), David Meki (Rosmini College), Lemeki Namoa (Sacred Heart College).
Coach Brad Mooar said his team has an exciting mix of players that have the potential to produce exciting rugby.
“It’s a talented group that has a good mix of power, size and skill. We want to see them express themselves on the field and represent the Barbarians Club with pride.”
The New Zealand Schools Barbarians team will remain in camp in Palmerston North ahead of their first match on Thursday.
Match Schedule
28 September
New Zealand Schools v Fiji Schools, 2pm at Knox Grammar School, Sydney
New Zealand Barbarians Schools v Tonga Schools, 2pm at Sport & Rugby Institute, Palmerston North
2 October
New Zealand Schools v Australian Schools Barbarians, 1pm at Knox Grammar School, Sydney
New Zealand Barbarians Schools v New Zealand Maori Under 18s, 2pm at Sport & Rugby Institute, Palmerston North
7 October
New Zealand Schools v Australian Schools, 1pm at TG Milner Field, Sydney
Click here for the full team lists.
Photo credit: Fiona Goodall